Earlier this year, it was reported that NBC reality programming chief Paul Telegdy was interested in relaunchingLast Comic Standing with a few format changes -- including a new host to replace Bill Bellamy, who helmed its fifth and sixth seasons.

Last Comic Standing seventh-season open casting calls began in Los Angeles on March 6 and will continue in New York City on March 21. Talent scouts will watch the performances of the aspiring comedians before deciding which will move onto the actual competition.

The show's seventh-season winner will receive a $250,000 prize and an exclusive NBC talent deal.